2018 NFL Draft Grades: San Francisco 49ers, Not 2017 But Still Good

The San Francisco 49ers did not murder this draft like they did in 2017. Nonetheless, it was very solid and covered areas in which they were lacking. There are a couple of projects. Regardless, the depth is key for John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan.

For the San Francisco 49ers, John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan needed to have another spectacular draft. They had already locked up their franchise QB for the next 5 years. They secured a secondary spot with the signing of Richard Sherman. Next thing in the order of business is to slay the 2018 NFL Draft. While the 49ers did not slay it in terms of 2017, they did present themselves with a solid class. How did they do? Here is a look at the 49ers Class of 2018 and the team grades out.

Big Mike should step right in and secure the front side for Jimmy Garoppolo. Incumbent Joe Staley is entrenched on the blind side. Nonetheless, McGlinchey is a strong athletic tackle with excellent feet. His frame allows him to add additional weight at the pro level. Although his footwork and hands are already there. Thus allowing the 49ers to plug and play with the number one selection.

Kyle Shanahan can never have enough weapons. Adding Pettis to a receiving corps Pierre Garcon, Marquise Goodwin, and Aldrick Robinson gives Jimmy G plenty of weaponry on the outside. While the aforementioned players are primarily outside WRs, Pettis can come in and make an immediate impact in the slot. His sticky hands and concentration in traffic make him an ideal candidate.

Warner was the leading tackler for BYU. He led the Cougars his senior season with 87 tackles. Nine of those tackles were behind the line of scrimmage. Warner has experience defending in the slot. This could be advantageous to the 49ers playing him as a nickel corner. This experience put in that hybrid Safety/LB category.

Moore has tremendous speed at the safety position. He ran a 4.3 40 yard dash at his pro day. His speed alone allows him to stay with receivers and even catch up. The 33” arms that grace his body give him an advantage on 50/50 balls. While he is raw, Moore should be ready to play a major role for the San Francisco 49ers soon.

Street was just one member of the Wolfpack front four. All of which were selected in the 2018 NFL Draft. Street would have been a possible day two selection had it not been for a torn ACL at his pro day. The 49ers may have themselves a steal on the outside if all his medicals come back clean.

Reed is a smaller CB. Hence he is likely destined to be a CB in the NFL. There is nothing wrong with that. Many have made a great living being in this role. Reed plays with a high-level of confidence and energy. Thus his height is rarely a factor.

His size, 6’1” is definitely NFL worthy. However, he is coming off an Achilles injury that could hinder his production early. He is a project in the true sense having only played nine career college games.

If Taylor is able to get into a gap he is a very solid player. He comes with a tacklers reputation. Having 41 tackles while only playing 46% of the defensive snaps. Taylor is another project player for the San Francisco 49ers. Especially when it comes to rushing the passer.

James a smaller WR. At 5’10” and 1863 lbs he will need to add some size to his frame. Especially for going across the middle against bigger LBs in the NFL. However, James has been riddled with injuries throughout his college career. Making this a questionable selection for the 49ers. Look for him on special teams or practice squad.

The San Francisco 49ers did not murder this draft like they did in 2017. Nonetheless, it was very solid and covered areas in which they were lacking. There are a couple of projects. Regardless, the depth is key for John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan.

How do you feel about the Class of 2018 for the San Francisco 49ers? Leave a comment below. Also, take part by leaving your own grade for the team in our grading window.

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I have been writing about the NFL since 2012. I love writing and sharing my opinion about the greatest sport today. My work has been featured on sites like Bleacher Report and Yard Barker. In addition to my articles, you can also catch me on The Rat Pack Sports Show Wednesday and Sunday Nights. Follow me on Twitter and Instagram @NFLWBLZ.